E. Steen to A. C. Wildrick, August 19, 1861

Lieut. A. C. WILDRICK, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, District of Oregon, Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter.: SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of the communication of the colonel commanding the district, dated August 9, relating to our Indian affairs. A large number of the Nez Percés are inclined to be hostile, and from the best information I can gain it appears that at least one-half of them have seceded and have gone, or are going, to join the Snakes. I have it from Mr. Smith, Indian sutler, who hasjust come down from the reserve. It is feared by the agent, and in fact by all who are competent to judge, that there will be an outbreak probably on Salmon River and the South Branch of Clearwater. The presence of another company of dragoons on the reservation at Captain Smith’s disposal would keep the disturbance away from the settlements, most likely on the extreme southern boundary, but as for protecting those reckless men who have pushed on out of all reach it would be impossible. They are roving all over the country in defiance of treaty, law, or remonstrance, and must take care of themselves. I would send Lieutenant Reno with his company at once to re-enforce Captain Smith, if I only had Company H here to render my garrison sufficiently strong, and I would respectfully urge that it be ordered here immediately. The emergency requiring its presence might arise while it is yet too far from the scene of action to be of any service. I will keep the troops in the reservation for some time yet, although I expect they will be obliged to come in by the end of September on account of their horses. There has been no news from the emigrant road, no parties having come in yet, but that there will be trouble if the emigrants break up into small parties there can be no doubt. They must be keeping together, and perhaps have an escort, or we should have heard from them before this.

Very respectfully, your most obedient servant,